Landscaping?

So, I would love some help to landscape my yard. I know, you're saying, "But McKay, you're only going to be there until June"... well, we were only going to be at Sheppard for 1 year and we were there for 2. So... I've decided to live in each place like I actually live there. But of course, keeping the landscaping costs to a minimum is desirable.

I would love something pretty - we know I love pretty things. I would love flowers. I would love different textures. I like azaleas, gardenias, ferns, bulbs, lilies, hibiscus, pansies, bogonias... I started researching gardening and landscaping, but there is simply TOO much information for me to sift through - I need some expert opinions (the input of friends and family). Below are some pictures I really liked and would hope to get something similar (within means).

Great texture in this one

Love the many colors, textures, heights

I would love to use herbs for nice-smelling landscaping - mint, rosemary...

Again, love the texture

bulbs give great color!

AND... here is what I'm working with...

The first impression

In order of priority (1) the front walkway. The front half of the bed gets full sun most of the day, the back half is full shade. I'm not a huge fan of the sculptured bushes on the side, but don't want to spend the energy or money - maybe prune them. Ideas for this area?

(2) the wall to the left of the driveway. There's a trellis there for a climbing plant and two bushes. Only gets mostly shade and indirect sun.

(3) The bed on the back patio (where the outdoor table is) - indirect sunlight, but would love a hibiscus here.

(4) backyard (will move the woodpile and doghouse) FULL SUN!! This window is the living room window, so maybe something colorful to see out the window?

Problem-solving parameters: given photos above, want color, texture, herbs, want something to enjoy now, want something to enjoy through the winter, spring, summer (not have to be all same thing! Maybe a plan for the seasons - plant this that will flower in the spring next to this that is pretty in the winter... you know).

Thanks in advance for your advice! I need it! Hope you're all doing well.